Below is the relevant part of the EC new Internet Governance policy as it pertains to Surveillance and Security.
7. BUILDING CONFIDENCE
Confidence in the Internet and its governance is a prerequisite for the realisation of the Internet's potential as an engine for economic growth and innovation. The safety, security, stability and resilience of the Internet are crucial to preserve and foster the economic and societal benefits of the digital ecosystem.
The Commission is addressing these challenges, notably via the reform of the EU data protection framework, the effective fight against cybercrime and an ambitious approach to cyber-security, such as the EU Cybersecurity strategy. This strategy aims at making the EU online environment the safest in the world, while preserving and further promoting fundamental rights. A rising number of activities online directly contravene the exercise of fundamental rights.
Cybercrime, including online child abuse, identity theft, cyber attacks and non-cash payment fraud, and other forms of unlawful processing of personal data pose a serious threat to confidence in the use of the Internet. The Commission is committed to drastically reducing cybercrime.
The role of the technical community is crucial, including by ensuring confidence in IP based communications and the resilience of cryptosystems to increase the trustworthiness of IP-based communications. This would support an effective fight against cyber-crime and ensure the privacy of users.
Large-scale surveillance and intelligence activities have also led to a loss of confidence in the Internet and its present governance arrangements. The Commission addressed some of these concerns notably in its Communication on rebuilding trust in international transfers of personal data. The implications for global Internet governance must also be addressed.
The Commission will work with the Council and Parliament to achieve rapid adoption and implementation of key legislation, including the reform of the data protection framework and the proposed Directive on network and information security, in order to strengthen trust online.
The Commission is committed to working with partners to rebuild trust in the Internet, including through the strengthening of its global governance, which is an essential prerequisite for a sustainable future for an open Internet.